The genCARE Project

Where genomics research will facilitate Canadian Afrocentric health Research and Empowerment

What is the purpose of the genCARE project?

We are conducting a project to better position Black communities to benefit from the advances in personalized medicine, including newer approaches to the treatment of certain medical conditions. Personalized medicine is healthcare that is tailored to each person’s unique genes, lifestyle, and environment. Furthermore, we will be better able to understand the genesis of health conditions that affect Black communities, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and triple-negative breast cancer. By analyzing blood samples through specialized tests, we hope to learn more about how these conditions develop and find ways to improve health care. The project also considers how life experiences and community environments impact health. Our goal is to support improved and more tailored health care for Black Canadians.

Two people look at a laptop together in a bright office, with one person seated at the desk and the other standing nearby.

Our study sites

We have partnered up with the McMaster University, McGill University and Dalhousie university for this study. At this time, we have our Toronot site which is live. Stay tuned for Hamilton, Montreal and Halifax sites.

The Hospital for Sick Children

Toronto, Ontario

Coming soon!

McMaster University

Hamilton, Ontario

Coming soon!

McGill University

Montreal, Quebec

Coming soon!

Dalhousie University

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Toronto, Ontario skyline with CN Tower
Aerial view of Montreal Biosphere in Montreal Quebec
Hamilton Ontario downtown city skyline
Peggy`s Cove Lighthouse in Nova Scotia

Who can participate?

Participants must fulfill three criteria:

Age

18 years or older

Citizenship

Citizenship or permanent resident status

Ethnicity

Self-identify as Black

What will happen during this project?

As a participant you will:

Give a blood sample for genomic testing

Have your blood sugar checked using a small device (glucometer)

Have your blood pressure tested

Complete a questionnaire on your health and background

Ready to join the genCARE project?

Or contribute in another way

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